Green's Lick and Ingles Field Gap Loop

This loop is largely considered an expert-level trail, earning a 'Black Diamond' difficulty rating due to its challenging climbs and fast, technical descents. While the physical effort is often described as moderate for fit riders, the technical aspects, especially on sections like Ingles Field Gap Trail, require advanced riding skills.

The route features a diverse mix of terrain, including rocky and rooty singletrack, fire roads, and doubletrack gravel sections. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, with tough, rocky ascents and rewarding descents that include berms, wallrides, and high-speed jumps. A full-suspension mountain bike is often recommended due to the bumpy and technical nature of the trail.

While specific parking details aren't provided, the trail is located within Bent Creek Experimental Forest. Access points typically involve parking areas within the forest. It's advisable to check local resources or the Bent Creek Experimental Forest website for the most current parking information and trailhead access points.

Bent Creek Experimental Forest is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required for day use of the trails for activities like mountain biking. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Bent Creek Experimental Forest website for any updated regulations or specific permit requirements, especially for group events or commercial activities.

Given its 'Black Diamond' rating and technical challenges, this loop is not recommended for beginners or young families. It features significant climbs and fast, technical descents that require advanced mountain biking skills. There are other more family-friendly and beginner-appropriate trails within Bent Creek Experimental Forest that might be a better option.

The best time to ride this loop is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and the trails are dry. Fall offers beautiful foliage. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially after rain or snowmelt, and colder temperatures. Always check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out.

Dogs are generally allowed in Bent Creek Experimental Forest, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. As this is a multi-use trail, it's crucial to ensure your dog is under control to avoid conflicts with other users, including hikers and other mountain bikers. Please remember to pack out all pet waste.

The loop is renowned for offering some of Bent Creek's best descents. Greens Lick Trail is a premier downhill section known for its fast, flowy nature, jumps, massive berms, and wallrides. Ingles Field Gap Trail provides a steeper and trickier descent with significant technical challenges. The initial warm-up on Deer Lake Lodge also features small tables for jumps.

Yes, the route utilizes and intersects with several other trails within Bent Creek Experimental Forest. Notable sections include parts of Green's Lick Trail, Wolf Branch Trail, Little Hickory Top Trail, Deer Lake Lodge Trail, Sidehill Trail, Hardtimes Connector Trail, and Ingles Field Gap.

While specific named viewpoints aren't highlighted, the entire loop is set within the beautiful Bent Creek Experimental Forest, offering a natural and scenic backdrop throughout your ride. The forest setting itself provides a pleasant environment, especially during the vibrant spring and fall seasons.

This trail system is bidirectional and multi-use, meaning you'll likely encounter hikers, trail runners, and other mountain bikers traveling in both directions. Always be courteous, announce your presence when approaching, and yield to uphill traffic. Maintaining awareness of your surroundings is crucial for everyone's safety.